What do a Queen’s Counsellor, an Academic Theologian, a Nobel Lady and a Bishop have in common? It recently transpired that they’re excellent wine bluffers.

The Bishop of Dorking, Jo Bailey Wells, joined a number of other panellists for a Call My Wine Bluff charity challenge at Onslow Village Hall, in aid of Guildford’s Street Angels. Bishop Jo was joined by other celebrity panellists Nic Loddenberg QC, leading criminal defence lawyer, wine expert Dr Gisela Kreglinger from St Andrew’s University and Patron of Guildford Town Centre Chaplaincy, Lady Elizabeth Toulson CBE.

As well as enjoying live jazz, and a gourmet dinner, contestants blind tasted an eclectic selection of wines. Each of the panellists then gave differing descriptions, only one of which was true. To win points team members had to guess which description was true and which was a bluff, with a team from Dunsfold collecting the top place and prize.

The Town Chaplaincy has been running the Street Angel project for ten years, supported by churches, businesses and individuals from the Guildford area. The Street Angels have helped 50,000 people in his first decade of operation, providing, a calming presence and much loved practical help on the town’s streets, between 11pm and 4am, every Friday and Saturday night.

The Revd Noelle Coe, the Town Chaplain, said

“I would like to thank all those who supported this fabulous event to raise much needed funds to enable our Angels to provide a friendly patrol every weekend in our town. Our town centre hides considerable problems after dark and behind closed doors, we are so encouraged when local businesses recognise the contribution of our amazing volunteers, making Guildford a safer and more caring place for those who work, rest or play here. I would love to hear from other generous local businesses who would like to work with us to make a difference to our local community”

Paul Fenner, Director of the Wine Gift Company, said,

“I was delighted to be able to support the valuable work of the Guildford Street Angels by organising this prestigious event. We were absolutely thrilled with the stunning  total of raising £3600 for the Angels, and we had so much fun in the process! I wish them well as the Angels continue to work hard  to raise funds for their work to care for the vulnerable in our town”

Anyone wishing to donate to the 10th anniversary “Be an Angel” appeal to support the work of the Chaplaincy should visit https://gtcc.org.uk.